ICC Worldcup 2019: Virat Kohli may pick extra seamer

Southampton: The prevalent overcast conditions in Southampton may force the Indian team management to opt for an extra seamer against South Africa in the opening World Cup game on Wednesday, indicated skipper Virat Kohli.

While chances of Bhuvneshwar Kumar's inclusion in the playing XI look brighter by the minute, Kohli gave an open-ended reply to the various questions on possible team combinations. There are indictions that Mohammed Shami may make the way for Bhuvneshwar but there are not any confirmation with regards to that.

In that case, Vijay Shankar will pip Kedar Jadhav to share the third seamer’s duties with Hardik Pandya. “We know it is a different situation in England when there is a cloud cover and when there is sun out. With two new balls, if the pitch has something to offer, then an extra seamer comes into the play big time. But even on a good pitch, on a batting-friendly pitch with two new balls, I foresee the first 10 overs to be challenging if there is cloud cover,” Kohli said, dropping a broad hint on Bhuvneshwar’s possible inclusion.

While Bhuvneshwar is a capable batsman but seamer-friendly conditions may prompt India to drop a spinner in case a fully fit Jadhav is included. “I think it will definitely be challenging, starting at 10.30 am in the morning for the batsmen and that is something that we have discussed,” he added.